Pune: VIP Darshan at Bhimashankar Goes Digital with QR Code; Pune Administration Gears Up for Shravan Crowd
Bhimashankar, 24th 2025: To manage the anticipated surge of devotees during the sacred month of Shravan, the Pune district administration has rolled out a QR code-based VIP darshan system at the renowned Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple. The tech-driven initiative aims to minimize crowd-related conflicts and streamline the pilgrimage process.
The decision was formalized during a high-level review meeting chaired by District Collector Jitendra Dudi at the Collectorate. The meeting saw participation from Bhimashankar Devasthan Trust Chairman Adv. Suresh Kaudare, senior temple authorities, and officials from the revenue, police, and forest departments, along with sub-divisional officers from Junnar, Khed, and Ambegaon talukas.
Given the influx of pilgrims expected, especially on Shravan Mondays, authorities will enforce a dual-queue system — one for VIP darshan (through QR codes) and another for general devotees. A demarcated area will be set up for darshan and puja activities.
Additionally, the police department has been tasked with identifying secure parking zones, including charging points for electric vehicles, while the Forest Department will conduct pre-Shravan route inspections to remove natural obstructions along pilgrimage trails.
Collector Dudi has instructed that QR code display boards be installed in Bhimashankar village, the temple complex, and at Manchar by Sunday. These codes will not only allow VIPs to gain fast-track entry but also offer pilgrims comprehensive details about temple services and facilities via the Bhimashankar Temple Trust’s platform.
In preparation for the upcoming Kumbh Mela, the administration has approved a robust ₹288 crore tourism development plan for Bhimashankar.
The proposed upgrades will focus on:
-Eco-tourism infrastructure
-Improved roads and transport
-Helipad construction
-Enhanced safety measures
-Vendor-friendly market zones
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed that the plan be executed without delay to ensure the holistic and sustainable development of Bhimashankar, one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas in India.
With a blend of technology, eco-consciousness, and logistical efficiency, this year’s Shravan season is expected to offer devotees a more orderly, safer, and fulfilling pilgrimage experience at Bhimashankar.
